I've got a nephew with a possible blown head gasket. 1997 4.6 w/ 100,000 miles.

He said he noticed it getting hot, pulled over and found the radiator low. Filled it and drove on. Nextday it got hot again, again no water, checked the oil and its milky.

It looks like I'm going to help him repair this truck, and he's on a very tight budget. However, I found the above quote, and started wondering if the freeze plugs could be the problem, instead of a head gasket? What are the odds?

Looks like a lot of you are replacing the heads and leaving the engine in the truck. Is that the easiest way?

Thanks in advance.

TD

 

This is the way to go if you have a lift:

 

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Head gasket, Cracked block or cracked head and (or) leaking or cracked intake manifold leaking throught the lifter valley right into the oil pan. Usually one of the four. Inspect every part as you disassemble! Freeeze plugs will not cause water in the oil. But it may be a good idea if your working around the area because if the person that owns the vehicle is not performing scheduled maintenance on the vehicle this will probally enlighten you on the condition of the freeze plug. Most plugs will show signs of erosion by a rust color or a trace leak look. You make your call because most are difficult for the average person to replace.

 

Cute, I don't think thats going to be the way to go.